Former B.C. Premier John Horgan dies at 65

British Columbia Premier John Horgan passed away on November 7, 2023, at the age of 65 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Horgan’s death occurred at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, where he had been receiving treatment for thyroid cancer diagnosed in June 2023. His commitment to public service and his deep affection for British Columbia marked his political career, during which he served as Premier from 2017 until stepping down in early 2022 due to health issues.

Bond, who served as interim leader of the BC Liberals from November 2020-May 2022, got into dozens of heated arguments with Horgan and his NDP government during his time as premier.

But it wasn’t always like that and it was those moments of mutual respect and the kindness Horgan showed behind the scenes that form Bond’s lasting memories of BC’s “working man’s premier.”

Horgan died of cancer Tuesday morning at Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria. He was 65.

“John Horgan will be missed and he is certainly appreciated for the work that he did, we had fierce question period exchanges but I will always be grateful for the respect that he showed to me, particularly during my time as leader of the opposition,” said Bond, who took over when Andrew Wilkinson stepped down as Liberal leader.

Longtime B.C. New Democrat Mike Farnworth was supposed to see Horgan Tuesday morning, but instead learned his friend of 36 years had passed away.

"He was a remarkable person, a really remarkable person," Farnworth said through tears.

Farnworth lit up as he shared stories of Horgan with reporters. 

"It didn't matter who you were, what you did, he was able to connect with you, sit down, have a conversation, have a beer, whatever. Whether you agreed with his politics or you didn't agree with his politics, he just had this ability to connect with people."

In the first term in office, Horgan put in place significant affordability measures including removing the Medical Service Premium plan fees, removing tolls on two Metro Vancouver bridges and increasing social assistance.

After much consideration, Horgan determined the controversial Site C dam was past the point of no return and the province moved ahead with the electricity production project. He opposed the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion but eventually was forced off the opposition after the federal government purchased the pipeline.

COVID-19 pandemic. His administration focused on affordability measures that resonated with many residents of British Columbia. Notably popular among constituents, Horgan often enjoyed approval ratings exceeding 60%, reflecting his effectiveness and connection with the public. His legacy as a dedicated leader will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of those he served.

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Sarah H

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